Google is testing a new design for the media controls in Android Auto. In the latest beta version (10.8), the media player gets a fresh look, making it easier to use while driving.

Instead of showing small buttons and album art on the side, the new layout places bigger buttons across the screen. The play/pause, next, and previous track controls are now centered, making them easier to tap. The seek bar also stretches across the bottom of the player, giving users a better view of track progress. Album artwork still shows but in a smaller size, and the background uses a blurred version of the same art, giving it a modern style.

This design update first appeared in Android Auto 11.4 beta and seems to still be in testing. Some users have reported seeing this new layout on their head units with version 11.4 or later. Google might be testing the feature through a server-side switch, so it may not appear for everyone yet, even if they have the beta installed.

While it’s not clear when or if this layout will roll out widely, the changes show that Google is focused on improving the Android Auto experience. Bigger buttons and a cleaner layout can make it safer and more convenient to control music while driving. For now, the update is limited to beta testers, and more changes might still come before the final version.

Google has released Android 16 Beta 4.1, just a week after the Beta 4 update. This version focuses on fixing bugs and making the system more stable before the official Android 16 release, which is expected in the coming weeks.

One major issue that’s been fixed is with the “Continue using apps on other devices” feature. This tool lets users continue tasks from one device to another, like moving from a phone to a tablet. In Beta 4, it wasn’t working properly on tablets. That issue is now resolved.

Another fix in Beta 4.1 addresses a problem where some phones couldn’t connect to a cellular network, making calls and mobile data unavailable. That bug is now patched. Additionally, Google has fixed crashes that happened when opening the Wallpaper & Style settings and other small stability issues.

Android 16 is still in the platform stability phase. That means developers can test their apps with confidence that most features are now set and won’t change much. Google is getting closer to the final version, which should arrive by June or July.

The Beta 4.1 update is available for Pixel 6 and newer devices, including the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold. Users already in the beta program will get it automatically. If you’re not part of the program, you can sign up through the Android Beta website to try it early.

This small update may not bring new features, but it helps make Android 16 more polished before its full launch.

Google is getting ready to roll out Android 16 in June 2025, and it’s shaping up to be a major update. The new version will not only give Android a fresh look, but it also brings useful features focused on design, security, and accessibility.

One big change is in the Quick Settings panel. Google is testing a new design that spreads the icons across three pages instead of cramming them into one. This should make it easier to find and use important controls like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and brightness. The updated layout also includes a large clock and date at the top for better readability.

Security is getting a serious upgrade too. Android 16 adds an “intrusion detection” feature that can log if someone tries to unlock your device without your permission. These records can be shared with law enforcement if needed. Another useful tool is the Remote Lock feature. If your phone gets lost or stolen, you’ll be able to lock it remotely using just your phone number and a security question—no Google password needed.

Android 16 also improves support for people with disabilities, adding better text-to-speech options and clearer visuals.

On the smartwatch side, Google is working on Wear OS 6. It’s expected to launch alongside Android 16 and will match the new design style, offering better navigation and accessibility for smartwatches too.

With Android 16 and Wear OS 6, Google is aiming to make your devices look better, work smarter, and stay more secure—all at the same time.